How to save Money Buying Packing Supplies for Your Next Move

6 Money-Saving Tips for Buying Packing Supplies for Your Next Move

Moving from one house to another can get expensive. Even if you’re just moving across town, the expense can be quite high, so it’s important to try to save money where you can. What you spend on packing supplies is something you have control over, so we’ve put together this helpful list of six money-saving tips for buying packing supplies for your next move.

Buy or Borrow Plastic Storage Boxes

We’re big fans of plastic storage boxes for moving. Not only are they durable enough to withstand all the jostling they receive, they are usually bigger in size than traditional moving boxes, which means you’ll be able to pack more in fewer boxes. The best thing about using plastic storage boxes for moving is the fact that you can repurpose them after the move for storage. Even if you don’t use them afterward, they nestle together neatly so you can save them for next time.

Now, buying plastic storage bins can be pricey, so if you can borrow some from friends or family, it would greatly reduce your expenses. Just label each box with its owner’s name and return them once you’re finished unpacking.

Rent Moving Boxes

An alternative to buying the boxes you need is to rent moving boxes. Many companies around the country rent plastic moving boxes, which ends up being cheaper than buying them – plus it’s a greener option than using cardboard if you’re concerned about the environment.

Find Used Boxes around Town

To really save money, you can scour your local retail district for used cardboard boxes. Many stores will gladly give you all the boxes you need if you just ask. Wine and liquor store boxes are ideal for moving since they are heavy duty and strong, but you’ll need a lot of them because they aren’t very big.

You can also check out Craigslist for used boxes, as many people give them away rather than throw them away when they are done with them.

Use Garbage Bags

While we don’t recommend using garbage bags for your move because they do tend to tear easily, they are a cheap option for packing. We would like to caution using them, however, if the things you’re packing will remain packed for any length of time after the move. Plastic bags tend to capture and retain moisture, which can damage your belongings inside.

Pack Fragile Items using Clothing

Rather than spring for packing peanuts or bubble wrap to protect your fragile items, use clothing, linens, and other soft items instead. Newspaper works well, too, and you can start saving it months ahead of time so you have enough. Something else you can use is shredded paper if you’re in the habit of shredding old bills, documents, and the like.

Visit Dollar Stores for Other Packing Supplies

You’ll probably need other packing supplies such as packing tape and markers, so check your local dollar stores before buying these things from a big-name store. There’s a good chance you’ll get everything you need for less than $10.

Alternately, you can ask any friends or family who has moved before if they have any leftover supplies. Most people are happy to donate these things because they know how expensive and stressful moving actually is.

Moving houses is expensive enough without the worry of buying packing supplies. Rather than add to the high cost of moving, use the six money-saving tips for buying packing supplies for your next move above. Good luck and happy moving!